The Foundation Board of People’s Community Clinic has been a pillar of community leadership and fundraising since 2011, ensuring the clinic adapts and thrives alongside Austin’s dynamic growth.
“The foundation board’s role is involves community leadership and fundraising, both equally crucial,” Joy Authur, Chief Development Officer at People’s, notes when talking about the importance of this board’s work.
Sujata Ajmera, Foundation Board president and an attorney at Clark Hill PLC in Austin provided insightful perspectives on the board’s current initiatives, future goals, and how the board’s development of a new group, the People’s Collective, hopes to transform community involvement by combining advocacy, volunteerism and social events.
“Austin has grown so much, and our demographics are changing rapidly. It’s not a small town anymore where everyone volunteers for something. The challenge is figuring out how to get the word out about our work and how to engage people in a way that sustains,” says Ajmera when reflecting on potential issues the Foundation Board faces – finding the next generation of leadership and donors.
The People’s Collective: Inclusive and Engaging
The People’s Collective is an initiative championed by the Foundation Board to foster broader community involvement. Launched coincidentally during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Collective seeks to welcome and engage a new audience.
“People’s Collective was born out of this idea that we have so many new people in our city,” Ajmera shares, “the Collective is for anyone willing to contribute, regardless of financial status or age. The idea is simple yet powerful: make participation accessible and fun!”
For a small monthly contribution, members can join various events—from wine tastings to book drives—combining social interaction with volunteerism. “It’s about where you are in your giving journey,” Sujata notes. People’s Collective provides a platform for individuals to support the clinic in ways that suit their interests and capabilities, providing opportunities to grow within the group.
Financial support remains a critical component of the board’s responsibilities. “Organizations need money to run, and with People’s, we have incredible programming for our patient population,” Sujata explains. Grants play a significant role, especially with programs and special projects. Unrestricted funds raised by the Foundation Board and the People’s Collective allow the clinic to address various needs seamlessly.
Advocacy is another pillar of involvement. “You can’t just be a fly on the wall,” Sujata stresses. Members must be active evangelists, spreading awareness about the clinic’s services and encouraging others to get involved. The more people know about the clinic, the more likely they are to seek healthcare services or contribute financially. “Once they know about the clinic, it sells itself,” adds Ajmera.
The need for comprehensive healthcare services becomes even more critical as Austin grows. By supporting the clinic, you’re contributing to a cause and becoming part of a legacy of care and compassion.
If you’re passionate about community health and want to make a tangible impact, consider supporting initiatives like the People’s Collective. Your support helps ensure that People’s Community Clinic continues providing essential healthcare services to Central Texans in need.
For more information on how to get involved, contact Joy at JoyA@austinpcc.org or 512.684.1722.